Everyone talks about national parks, but state parks are where you’ll find some of the best-kept secrets—less crowded, easier access, and still packed with the kind of natural beauty and adventure you won’t forget. Whether you’re looking for backcountry trails, great hunting and fishing, or quiet campsites with a view, these parks are worth the trip.
If you’re building a list of places you’ve got to see in your lifetime, start with these 10—each one’s earned its spot.
Custer State Park, South Dakota
This park has everything from open plains to granite peaks, and the wildlife isn’t shy—bison herds roam right across the road. The Needles Highway is worth the drive alone, winding through tight rock tunnels with views that hit hard.
There’s solid fishing in the lakes, good camping, and Black Elk Peak if you’re up for a hike. You’re also right near Mount Rushmore, but honestly, Custer’s the better stop if you like space and solitude.
Dead Horse Point State Park, Utah
It’s not as crowded as Arches or Canyonlands, but the views are every bit as impressive. You’re standing above the Colorado River with massive red rock canyons all around—it’s the kind of place you remember forever.
Sunrise and sunset here hit different. There are a few solid trails and even some mountain biking routes if you’re into that, but the overlook alone makes the trip worth it.
Fall Creek Falls State Park, Tennessee
This one’s got one of the highest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, and the hike down to the base is worth the effort. It’s a good mix of rugged and family-friendly with swimming holes, swinging bridges, and lots of wooded trails.
The cabins and campsites are solid, and the park’s big enough to stay busy for a few days. If you like backwoods terrain without going full backcountry, this is a good pick.
Silver Falls State Park, Oregon
They call it the “Trail of Ten Falls” for a reason—you can walk behind, around, and right up close to waterfalls that cut through dense forest. It’s not far from Salem, but it feels like you’re deep in the Pacific Northwest.
The trail system’s well marked, and the loop is doable in a day if you pack right. Come after some rain, and the falls really show off.
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Michigan
Up in the Upper Peninsula, this place is a whole different world. Thick forests, rocky ridges, and Lake Superior all in one spot. The Escarpment Trail overlooks Lake of the Clouds, and it’s one of the best views in the Midwest.
It’s a solid place for backpacking or just getting off-grid for a few days. The wildlife’s active, and the fall colors here are about as good as they get.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas
Second-largest canyon in the country, and hardly anyone outside Texas talks about it. You can drive right into it, camp at the bottom, and hike trails that lead up to ridges with wide-open views.
It gets hot in the summer, so plan accordingly, but spring and fall are great. The Lighthouse Trail’s the main draw, and it’s worth every step.
Baxter State Park, Maine
This is real wilderness—no cell service, no frills, and no help if you’re unprepared. Mount Katahdin is the big draw, especially for folks finishing the Appalachian Trail, but even day hikes here are serious.
You’ve got to plan ahead, reserve your spot, and follow the rules. But if you’re looking for rugged terrain and quiet, remote country, this is the place.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California
It’s the largest state park in California and one of the most underrated. Desert hiking, slot canyons, and off-road access make it a solid spot for overland trips. Spring brings wildflowers if the rains were decent.
You’ll need to bring everything—water, shade, gear—but the stars at night and the sense of space out here are hard to beat.
Devil’s Den State Park, Arkansas
This one’s got caves, bluffs, and old stone cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The trails are well maintained, and the terrain’s a good mix of rocky hills and forested valleys.
It’s especially great in the fall when the colors change, and there’s enough to do here that it works for both weekend trips and longer stays.
Chugach State Park, Alaska
If you’re in Alaska, this one’s worth the stop. It’s huge—nearly half a million acres—and right outside Anchorage. You’ve got everything from glacier hikes to mountain lakes and even a few places to spot moose and bears.
The weather can change fast, so don’t show up unprepared. But for folks who want real wilderness without flying out to the bush, Chugach delivers.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
